Lawrence "Larry" Dean Evans

Lawrence “Larry” Dean Evans, age 83, of Olathe, Kansas, passed away on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at Hospice House in Olathe. A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the First Assembly of God Church, in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, with Pastor Kevin Alexander officiating. Online condolences may be expressed by visiting Larry’s obituary page, viewable at www.reverencefuneralparlor.com

Larry was born on December 1, 1942, in Kimball, Nebraska, to Leonard "Red" and Belle (Caddy) Evans. He grew up in Kimball and graduated from Kimball High School.

He married the love of his life, Linda Jerrine Wilson, on October 17, 1969. They shared 49 years of marriage before Linda’s death on December 8, 2018. Larry was a self-employed businessman who owned and operated Western Truck Service in Gering, Nebraska, for approximately 30 years.

Larry had a lifelong passion for classic and antique automobiles. His idea of a perfect afternoon often involved driving aimlessly down country roads, searching for an old car tucked away in a forgotten barn or field. Larry wasn't shy about wandering onto the property to take a closer look whenever he spotted one. More often than not, the surprised property owner would discover him and soon find themselves sharing past times about the vehicle with Larry. He had a way of somehow turning complete strangers into friends within minutes. Those spontaneous roadside discoveries often became the highlight of his day, and before long, he and the owner were swapping stories as though they had been friends for years.

He loved telling stories about his life, and those who knew him understood that his tales occasionally included a few embellishments that only made them more entertaining. Larry marched to the beat of his own drum, always convinced he had discovered a better way to do something that the rest of the world simply hadn't caught on to yet. He enjoyed camping, spending time working in his shop, meeting friends for breakfast, watching westerns, cheering on the Nebraska Cornhuskers, and sharing life with the many beloved dogs he owned over the years.

Above all, Larry will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, curiosity, gift for conversation, and ability to leave people smiling after every encounter. His stories, humor, and unmistakable personality will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Survivors include his children, Chris (Katie) Evans and Dr. Toni (Dr. Roberto) HarrisonHayes; grandchildren, Noah and Caleb Evans of Olathe, Kansas, and Jacob, Samantha, and Eric Hayes of Phoenix, Arizona; sister, Dorothy "Dot" (Gunther) Koob of Gering, Nebraska; and many extended family members and friends who will cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Linda Evans; parents, Red and Belle Evans; and brothers, Duane "Lee" and Nelson Evans.